It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David Earl Lees, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and a highly respected Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. David peacefully left this world on December 16, 2023, in Marshall, Missouri, surrounded by his beloved family, after courageously battling appendiceal cancer for 3.5 years.
Born on April 24, 1951, in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, to Earl and Ruth Lees, David’s journey through life was marked by unwavering loyalty, hard work, and an unyielding commitment to treating everyone with dignity. Graduating high school, he enlisted in the Navy in Jacksonville, Florida, where he began his remarkable journey of service.
After his Naval Service, David shared the gospel through the traveling ministry, Christ is the Answer, where he not only found purpose but also the love of his life, his bride Linda. His passion for the gospel remained a guiding force throughout his life.
David’s dedication to the well-being of others led him to nursing school in Pennsylvania and subsequently to anesthesia school, where he honed his skills to become a highly ethical and skilled Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. His commitment to his profession was exemplified during his years of service in the Air Force at Wright Patterson Air Force Base.
Post his military service, David continued to make a lasting impact as a CRNA at Akron General Hospital in Ohio, Fitzgibbon Hospital in Marshall, Missouri, and Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. His illustrious career culminated at the Surgery Center in Centralia, Illinois, where he was well-respected by peers and appreciated for his responsibility, attention to detail, and punctuality.
Retiring to his farm in Nelson, Missouri, David reveled in the simple joys of life. Whether on his tractor, tending to chores, observing nature, or pursuing his love for hunting, he found solace in the great outdoors.
David was a man of deep faith, passionate about Jesus, and dedicated to his family. His warmth and friendliness knew no bounds, and he treated every person he encountered with kindness and respect. He maintained lifelong friendships, and his laughter resonated through the lives of his friends and family.
An active member of Faith Family Fellowship Church in Fayette, Missouri, David’s spiritual life was central to his identity, and his contributions to the church community were marked by the same dedication and passion he brought to every aspect of his life.
David leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion survived by his wife of 48 years, Linda, children Rebecca Jones (Byron), Matthew Lees, and Rachel Navarro (Fernando), his brother William Lees (Debbie Lees), and cherished grandchildren Kendall, Isaac, Luke, Hadassah, Emmanuel, Ana Ximena, and Hudson; as well as nieces, nephews, and loving extended family.
In Heaven, he is reunited with his parents, Earl and Ruth, leaving behind a grateful family and a community that will forever remember David Earl Lees—a man whose life exemplified the principles of love, laughter, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those he touched.
May David’s Godly legacy live on.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at Campbell-Lewis Chapel in Marshall with Pastor Terry Schmelzenbach officiating. Burial with military rites will follow in Nelson Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Faith Family Fellowship Church to support mission work, a cause close to David’s heart.